Uttarakhand which was formerly known as Uttaranchal is a great place on the foothills of Indian Himalayas where there are several options for trekking ranging from simple to complex treks. The Himalayan region in Uttarakhand can be divided into two parts: Kumaon and Garhwal. Being the source of India’s most holy and sacred river Ganga, Garhwal region of Uttarakhand has been one of the most visited pilgrimage destination of India for centuries.

Trekking is one of the most popular adventure sports activities for which tourists go to Uttarakhand and trekking in various canyons of the state with complete wilderness is an exciting and fun-filled experience. It gives travelers a great opportunity to enjoy stunning and breathtaking views of alpine meadows and majestic Himalayas. There are plentiful of trails and treks with different levels of difficulty for trekkers of all types. Trekking in Uttarakhand gives trekkers a refreshing and tranquil experience.

Important Trekking Routes in Uttarakhand

Binsar Trek

Binsar is an amazing hill station valley that offers some of the most amazing views of majestic Kumaon valley. The Binsar trek initiates from Thalisain and heads towards Pauri. The trek route leads through dense forests of deodar, silver fir, pine and oaks. The ascents and descents in this trek are not very steep and the best time to cover this trek is during the winters. This trek also passes through the Samadhi of the great hero Veer Chandra Singh Garhwali located at Musa Kota in the Dudhatoli sanctuary. This trek can be a great experience for bird watching enthusiasts.

Chopta Tunganath Trek

This is relatively an unexplored trekking route which is best known for its mesmerizing natural beauty. Blessed with an astounding range of flora and fauna, this trek can be a wonderful experience for you. As per a legend, it is believed that the Lord Shiva’s arms emerged here. Summer months except monsoons are the best time for this trek.

Deorital Trek

This trek will take you to the high altitudes and will give you splendid views of nature and will take trekkers to a height of an altitude  of 2800 m. Deorital is an extremely beautiful lake with crystal clear and pristine waters presenting a wonderful  reflection of Chaukhamba and Neelkanth mountains. The best season for this trek is from March to May and October to December.

Dodital Hanumanchatti Trek

The trekking trail from Dodital to Hanumanchatti is astoundingly beautiful and gives spectacular views of Himalayas. Dodital is situated beyond the Bhagirathi River’s canyon between Yamuna and Ganga river valleys. A little ascend on this trek can take you to the majestic Darwa top situated at an altitude of 4450 m. The best season to take this trek is from April – October.

Gaumukh Tapovan Trek

Being the source of the river Bhagirathi, river Gaumukh is considered as the real source of the holy river Ganga. Tapovan is situated at an altitude of 4300 m beyond Gaumukh. It possesses some stunning meadows situated at the mount Shivling’s foot. This is a moderate trek and it involves glacier traversing, rock climbing, and bouldering apart from climbing. Another attraction of this mesmerizing trek is the site of Akash Ganga, which is considered to be the actual Ganga River flowing from Lord Shiva’s jata. The best time for this trek is from May to October.

Hanging Valley of Gods Trek

The hanging valley of Gods, also known as Har-ki-Doon, is a moderate but highly fulfilling trek. Situated in Garhwal Himalayas at an altitude of about 3500 m, this valley possesses a cradle like shape and is surrounded by glittering peaks and dense forests. Here, Duryodhana is worshipped as the prime deity. Best season to take this trek is from May to October.

Kafni Glacier Trek

Located on the eastern side of the Pindar canyon and southwards of vast Nanda Kot Hill, Kafni glacier is quite famous for its rich flora and fauna. Some of the vast Himalayan peaks you can view from Kafni glacier include Nandabhanar and Nandakot. The best time to take this trek is from April – October.

Kuari Pass Trek

Kuari pass is the gateway to one of the best treks in the state of Uttarakhand and the trail on this path is also known as Curzon trail. The panoramic views of Nanda Devi, Kamet, Dronagiri, Trishul, Bertholi, Hathi Ghori Parvat, Mana, Neelkanth and Garhwal Himalayas peaks. One can also witness some protected rare flora and fauna. The best time to go on this trek is from December – January.

Tips for Trekking

If you are planning to go on trekking, it is advisable to carry all the vital things which you may need in an emergency, wear comfortable clothes and shoes and ensure that your bag is packed with minimal but all the important things.